The integration challenge As new and more complex mobile broadband services are being introduced, and Diameter is established as the principal connectivity protocol between hundreds of systems and networks, integration is becoming a key topic. For many operators, the integration challenge is delaying the much needed service innovation in mobile broadband.

Diameter becoming the principal connectivity protocol In next generation broadband networks, it is fundamental that products support Diameter interfacing as soon as possible. In the next few years more and more operators will adopt to all-IP networks, which means control signaling will migrate to Diameter. This protocol will be necessary for nearly any system in an all-IP network, as it provides authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) functionality, as well the required connectivity and interfacing for many key broadband systems in the Data and Control plane. Furthermore Diameter enables the exchange of information between network operators (for roaming purposes).

Interoperability with non-Diameter protocols Over the last 20 years or so, a range of protocols and interfaces have been introduced to mobile networks to provide distinct connectivity, functions and features across many products of as many vendors. Although the industry is moving towards Diameter based connectivity, integration with existing systems in operator networks typically requires interoperability with non-Diameter protocols such as RADIUS, LDAP, XML, SOAP, SS7 etc. For most vendors, operators and integrators, adding these interfaces to their Diameter based products usually results in a costly, time- and resource-consuming development project.

Growing need for database interaction As operators move to more advanced mobile broadband offerings, they require additional and more frequent use of the rich information that resides at multiple locations and within many different repositories within their network and IT systems. Fast and frequent access to this information is vital to come to a richer, more accurate and advanced policy decision making process. Within next generation broadband networks, there is a growing need for accessing subscriber databases and other specialized functions. Advanced policy control requires capabilities to efficiently connect to various databases, managing multiple connections, aggregate and enrich information, and provision systems.

Numerous Diameter implementations and variants With the introduction of more advanced broadband traffic management systems, Diameter is becoming the principal connectivity protocol in operator networks. Although standardization bodies are working on specification of the Diameter protocol, the Telco industry is continuously innovating and moving fast. In Diameter there are over 50 different interfaces alone, not counting the numerous vendor specific variants. Different nodes in an operator network are implemented towards specific 3GPP releases and versions, and even small differences might have an impact on interoperability and can create service affecting incompatibilities.